The Mojito: A Cuban Classic

Few cocktails capture the essence of summer quite like the Mojito. With its origins in the bustling bars of Havana, this refreshing combination of rum, mint, and lime has become a global symbol of laid-back sophistication.

A Splash of History

Born in Cuba during the early 16th century, the Mojito’s roots can be traced back to a crude medicine made with aguardiente (a primitive rum), lime, mint, and sugar. Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake’s crew used a similar concoction to ward off scurvy. As rum production refined in Cuba, so did this humble drink, eventually evolving into the crisp, refreshing cocktail we know today.

The Experience

Imagine walking into a sun-drenched Havana bar on a sweltering afternoon. The Mojito arrives in a tall, frosted glass – a beautiful composition of glistening ice, fresh mint leaves, and tiny bubbles rising through the pale, straw-colored liquid. The aroma of crushed mint hits your nose before your first sip, promising the refreshment to come.

Flavor Profile

The Mojito is a masterclass in balance. The initial brightness of fresh lime juice mingles with the sweetness of sugar, while mint provides an aromatic freshness that dances across your palate. Quality white rum adds depth and complexity without overwhelming the other ingredients. The soda water lengthens the drink and adds a crucial effervescence that makes each sip feel alive.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum (preferably Cuban-style)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• ¾ oz simple syrup
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• Club soda
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a highball glass to release essential oils
2. Add fresh lime juice and rum
3. Fill glass ⅔ with crushed ice
4. Stir gently to combine and chill
5. Top with club soda
6. Garnish with a mint sprig and serve with a straw

Glassware: Highball glass

Pro Tips

• Never aggressively muddle mint leaves – you’ll release bitter compounds
• Use fresh lime juice, never bottled
• Opt for crushed ice when possible – it creates the perfect dilution rate
• Choose a quality white rum that’s clean and crisp
• Slap the mint garnish between your palms to release aromatics before garnishing

Perfect For

The Mojito shines brightest during warm-weather gatherings, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or lounging by the pool. It’s equally at home at sophisticated cocktail parties or casual happy hours. And while it’s undeniably a summer favorite, there’s never really a wrong time for this timeless refresher.

Remember, the beauty of a Mojito lies in its simplicity. When made with care and quality ingredients, it’s a drink that proves you don’t need complexity to create something extraordinary. As they say in Havana, “¡Salud!”